We meet in Québec City (1 night), the only fortified city in North America. A warm-up walk winds from the cobblestoned Lower Town up to Château Frontenac. Then a progressive welcome dinner takes us to three of the city’s great restaurants. Montmorency Falls is higher than Niagara and we’ll get impressive views during a spectacular morning walk. We’ve also set aside time for Île d’Orléans—a tiny island renowned for its villas, gardens, quaint villages and boatyards.

We follow the river to the Charlevoix region to lose ourselves for a few days in its unique mix of history, rural culture and natural beauty. In the charming arts and crafts village of Baie-St-Paul (2 nights), our friend Patrick gives us an unforgettable introduction to the local customs. We'll walk and picnic in the wildlife-rich national park that's home to peregrine falcons and a rare caribou herd. Then it’s on to La Malbaie (2 nights), a popular 19th century resort, crowned by a fine castle.

The highlight of the week may be Saguenay Fjord where we cruise between 1500-foot cliffs and watch for the many species of whales drawn to the plankton-rich waters. On our final morning, we return to Québec City and a chance to explore the city’s farmer’s market and antique district.